Where Politics Meets History
Global
Join broadcaster Iain Dale and historian Dr Tessa Dunlop as they take a fresh look at the biggest news of the week - through the lens of history. Because nothing is ever truly new, and history has a habit of repeating itself.
With wit, insight, and the occasional good-natured row, Iain and Tessa explore how today’s headlines echo the past, unearthing fascinating stories and unexpected parallels. Expect sharp analysis, engaging debate, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Subscribe now on Global Player or wherever you get your podcasts.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
With wit, insight, and the occasional good-natured row, Iain and Tessa explore how today’s headlines echo the past, unearthing fascinating stories and unexpected parallels. Expect sharp analysis, engaging debate, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Subscribe now on Global Player or wherever you get your podcasts.
For advertising opportunities on this podcast email: dax@global.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 14, 2025 • 48min
2. Wake Me Up Before You Quango
Join Iain and Tessa as they tackle the proposed dismantling of NHS England to improve healthcare efficiency. They dissect Putin's response to ceasefire talks, drawing parallel lessons from history. The conversation humorously shifts to beauty standards while pondering the legacy of Churchill and its impact today. Expect insightful discussions around contemporary issues like public welfare, youth mental health, and the risks of repeating historical mistakes in the face of autocracy. Plus, a light-hearted look at book endorsements!
Mar 11, 2025 • 60min
1. It's Raining Strong Men
This podcast dives into the fascinating world of strong leaders like Stalin, Putin, and Churchill. The hosts explore how past and present figures impact modern politics, focusing on recent elections in Canada and Germany. A humorous take on Iain's castle stay adds a personal twist. They also tackle Zelensky's leadership amidst crises and examine royal relations and their implications for diplomacy. With anecdotes woven through political analysis, listeners get a lively mix of history, humor, and international relations.
Mar 3, 2025 • 2min
Introducing: Where Politics Meets History
If you enjoyed For The Many, you're going to love this new podcast: Where Politics Meets History.Join Iain Dale with his new podcast pal, historian Dr Tessa Dunlop, as they delve through the biggest news of the week, but setting it in its historical context. Nothing is ever new, the wheel keeps turning, and our pair will guide you through what's happening now, and when it happened before! Expect laughs, fascinating facts... and maybe the occasional row!Listen and subscribe on Global Player or wherever you get your podcasts.
Oct 23, 2024 • 1h 1min
500. The End
Iain and Jacqui are reunited for this, their final episode. There are tears. There is laughter. And the producer plays a few clips (badly - apologies). You really don't want to miss it.
Oct 21, 2024 • 1h 39min
499. Parasocial Relationship - with Tessa Dunlop
Iain is joined by the wonderful historian and commentator Tessa Dunlop for this one - they talk about Moldova, Wes Streeting's family tree, Tessa's dream about Iain, reparations, the Royal visit to New Zealand and much else too!
Oct 17, 2024 • 1h 32min
498. Funky House - with Rosena Allin-Khan
Iain is joined by the tremendous Labour MP Rosena Allin-Khan for this ep! They discuss ozempic and the NHS, Christopher Chope's remarks about Kemi Badenoch being a mother, England getting a German manager and lots more besides.
Oct 14, 2024 • 1h 20min
497. Rude Health - with Lynne Featherstone
Iain is joined for this one by the Lib Dem peer Baroness Featherstone for this 'un. They talk about Labour's first hundred days in government, the death of Alex Salmond, Lynne's legacy on equal marriage, the future of the Lib Dems, international investment and more!
Oct 10, 2024 • 1h 22min
496. Fascinated by Gay Men - with Joanna Cherry
Iain is joined by lawyer and former SNP MP Joanna Cherry for this ep! They talk about the twists and turns of the Tory leadership contest, Joanna's departure from Parliament, Yvette Cooper and Taylor Swift, renters' rights, assisted dying and more.
Oct 8, 2024 • 1h 11min
495. On It - with Kirsty Wark
Kirsty Wark, renowned for her work on Newsnight, opens up about her transition after a long career in broadcasting. She reflects on the chaotic political landscape, touching on the challenges within the Labour Party and the Tory leadership race. The discussion deepens as they mark the sobering anniversary of the October 7th attacks, emphasizing humanitarian concerns. Additionally, Wark addresses the vital role of empathy in women's leadership and the need for candid discussions about menopause and assisted dying.
Oct 1, 2024 • 1h 7min
494. The Tale of Bobby J's Cap - with Penny Mordaunt
Penny Mordaunt, a former cabinet minister and Conservative leader contender, joins self-taught broadcaster David Reilly for a lively discussion. They tackle Robert Jenrick's SAS comments and delve into pressing global issues like the Israel-Lebanon conflict. Mordaunt reflects on leadership challenges at political conferences and the need for effective governance. Their banter also touches on the humor in politics and the importance of grassroots involvement, especially for women seeking to make a difference.
